A Burntwood councillor has blasted the length of time allocated for a debate on the future of the youth service in Staffordshire.
The County Council is set to discuss proposed changes at a meeting next week – but only 15 minutes has been set aside for the talks.
And Labour’s Sue Woodward, who represents Burntwood North, insists the timescale shows a “complete disregard” to the feelings of those affected by the moves, after a petition fighting the changes reached more than 16,300 signatures.
“There has been overwhelming opposition to the cuts of around 80 per cent in youth service funding and this petition shows exactly how residents feel,” said Cllr Woodward. “To be told that the council is allowing only 15 minutes for the debate in the face of this level of lobbying beggars belief.
“That is less than one minute per 1,000 signatures and will only allow four or five speakers at most to give their views.
“It shows a complete disregard of the feelings and concerns of Staffordshire young people and their families, let alone the responsibility of councillors to represent their electors.”
If the cuts go ahead it could lead to the closure of youth centres and a loss of jobs.
Cllr Woodward added: “The County Council’s cabinet seems to think that services can be replaced through the voluntary sector, but this just won’t happen without proper resourcing and support.
“We are all aware that things need to change and move forward but this simply won’t happen with this level of cuts.”
